Brief notes from 1st year BSc and MSci "wrap-up" session, 28 May 2002

Present:    20 students, Robin Hirsch (Chair), John Washbrook, Graham Roberts, Jill Saunders.

Points raised:

1.    Coursework.
The 1B12 tableau coursework and the second 1B10 coursework were far too long.  RDH agreed to discuss this with the course organisers.  It was suggested that people might have put in more effort  for the tableau coursework if the work had been worth more marks. RDH explained why this piece was not more heavily weighted. It was also suggested that the skills needed were taught too late, and that 1B12 should be moved to Term 1. RDH agreed to look into this.

2.    The options arrangements

RDH asked whether students had any concerns over the options arrangements - there were none.

3.    Perceptions about Computer Science as a discipline

Few of those attending claimed to have a very clear idea about what Computer Science was all about when applying for this programme.  There was a suggestion that when attending for interview it would have been useful to have a presentation about something more relevant to new undergraduates rather than research issues.  RDH/JW agreed to investigate.

4.    Tutorial System

RDH explained that the tutorial system was slightly different in Year 2.  Whereas Year 1 tutorials would normally address course-related issues. Year 2 tutorials would focus on transferable skills.  Several students among those present indicated that they had found the tutorial groups were helpful.

5.    Program Advisory Service

Only a few students had used the Program Advisory Service.  It was suggested that it needed to be better advertised, and that there should be some way of making it clear who the students on duty were (badges?).  GAR pointed out that the Program Advisory Service could be really useful to the students in year 2, as the department does not have the capacity to organise 2nd year lab sessions.

6.    On-line feedback forms (course evaluation)

One of the students suggested that more people would fill in forms and give feedback about the courses if paper copies were handed out to be completed during a lecture rather than on-line.

Jill Saunders

29 May 2002